Apple’s iPhone launch month is nearing its end, yet there remains much to discuss in the realm of Apple, including ongoing advancements in both new hardware and software. The tech giant is also gearing up for adjustments and enhancements in iOS 26.1 and other updates, while additional hardware releases are anticipated before the year’s conclusion. Students should take note as well; Apple’s annual Back to School promotion across various countries is approaching its end, so continue reading for detailed insights on these developments and more.
### Latest Updates in iOS 26.1 Beta 1
Apple is already advancing with the first major update for iOS 26, having released the initial beta version of iOS 26.1 to developers and public beta testers this week. This update enhances Apple Intelligence and expands AirPods Live Translation to more languages, introduces a new Liquid Design to the dial pad in the Phone app, and implements visual modifications to Safari, Calendar, and other applications, among other improvements.
### Issues with Scratches on iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone Air Models
Some of the newly launched iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone Air models displayed at Apple Stores on launch day have shown signs of scratches and scuffs, particularly on darker finishes such as the Deep Blue of the iPhone 17 Pro and the Space Black of the iPhone Air. Apple attributed these blemishes to the use of worn MagSafe chargers in stores, claiming that the marks can be easily cleaned off, although it acknowledges that specific areas, like the edges of camera plateaus, may incur minor abrasions over time due to standard wear and tear.
### Evaluating the 80% Charge Limit on iPhone 16 Pro Max
For several years now, Apple has permitted iPhone users to establish a custom charge limit for their devices, allowing them to cap the charge at levels such as 80%, 85%, 90%, or 95%, with the goal of preserving battery health. We conducted a year-long experiment with an iPhone 16 Pro Max, setting its charge limit at 80% to analyze how its battery health compared to another device charged without such restrictions. Explore the findings of our test to determine if adjusting your charging habits could be beneficial.
### Anticipated Features of the Next Apple TV Launch
Several hardware updates are still anticipated before the year wraps up, with the Apple TV being one of the key products on the roster. Following Apple’s announcements regarding the iPhone and other devices earlier this month, we revisited and summarized the rumors surrounding the upcoming update for Apple’s set-top box.
### Digital ID Feature Coming to Apple Wallet in 2025
One of the features announced for iOS 26 that was absent at launch is the Digital ID capability, which will integrate U.S. passports into the Wallet app on iPhone. Apple previously indicated that this feature would be available through a software update following the iOS 26 launch, and the company has now revised the information on its iOS 26 features page to affirm that it will be introduced later this year. Although the initial iOS 26.1 beta does not display this feature, many Wallet ID functionalities, such as driver’s licenses for various U.S. states (including North Dakota’s upcoming addition), can be activated server-side by Apple without requiring a specific iOS update.
### Final Days of Apple’s ‘Back to School’ Promotion, Now Including AirPods Pro 3
Apple’s yearly “Back to School” promotion for students in the U.S. and other countries is coming to a close, so it’s essential to act quickly if you want to receive free AirPods with the purchase of an eligible Mac or iPad. Beyond the standard student discounts, the promotion provides free or discounted accessories like AirPods or Apple Pencils with eligible device purchases. Notably, the new AirPods Pro 3 have been added to the list of discounted accessory options available in this promotion.
### Subscribe to the MacRumors Newsletter
Each week, we release an email newsletter summarizing the top Apple stories, providing readers with a concise recap of the week’s major topics and connecting related stories for a comprehensive overview. If you wish to have the latest updates delivered to your inbox weekly, consider subscribing to our newsletter!
Follow me to stay updated on the latest technology and computer news from around the world. Join me in spreading the love for tech!